Tinubu Commends Rema, Burna Boy, Shallipopi, Others as Nigeria Excels at 9th AFRIMA

Ugbede James Ankpa

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday congratulated Nigerian artistes who emerged victorious at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), describing their achievements as further evidence of the steady growth and rising global recognition of Nigeria’s music and creative industry.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the President praised the award winners for flying the nation’s flag high on the continental stage. He noted that their successes at AFRIMA underscored the creativity, resilience and immense potential of Nigerian youths, while also highlighting Nigeria’s expanding influence in African and global music.
Nigerian artistes recorded remarkable successes at the 9th AFRIMA, which took place from January 7 to 11, 2026, in Lagos State. Lagos was designated the official host city by the African Union Commission on April 9, 2025, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
At the awards, Rema clinched Artiste of the Year, Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, and Best African RnB & Soul. Burna Boy won Album of the Year, while Shallipopi emerged winner of Song of the Year and Best African Collaboration alongside Burna Boy. Phyno was named Best African Hip-Hop, Qing Madi received the Most Promising Artiste award, and Yemi Alade won Best Soundtrack. Chella was honoured as African Fans’ Favourite, while Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye received the AFRIMA Legendary Award.
President Tinubu said the outstanding performances of Nigerian artistes at the ceremony reflected years of dedication, talent and consistency, adding that Nigerian music has become a powerful cultural voice for the country across Africa and beyond. He also observed that platforms such as AFRIMA continue to offer African talents opportunities to shine and compete globally.
“I warmly congratulate our outstanding Nigerian artistes for their remarkable achievements at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards. Your success on this great continental stage is a proud moment for our nation and a strong reflection of the depth of talent, creativity and hard work that define Nigeria’s music industry,” the President said.
He added that beyond winning awards, the artistes had projected Nigeria’s culture, amplified the voices of young people and strengthened the country’s creative identity across the continent and internationally. He urged them to continue inspiring hope, unity and national pride while contributing to the growth of the creative economy and national development.
President Tinubu also congratulated Lagos State as the official host of the 9th AFRIMA and commended the state government for successfully delivering a world-class event.
“I commend Lagos State for once again demonstrating its capacity as Africa’s creative and entertainment capital. I congratulate the Lagos State Government and His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for the excellent hosting of Africa’s global music awards and for providing a safe, vibrant and welcoming environment for delegates, artistes and guests from across the continent,” he said.
Recalling that he was honoured in 2015 with the Pillar of Art and Culture in Africa Award by the African Union Commission and the International Committee of AFRIMA, the President assured Nigerians that his administration would continue to prioritise youth empowerment and the development of the creative economy. He noted that music, film, fashion and other creative sectors have the capacity to generate employment, boost tourism and significantly contribute to the nation’s economy.
“Culture is the soul of a people, and music remains one of Africa’s strongest voices. I remain deeply committed to supporting initiatives that promote our culture and empower our creative talents. Our government is fully committed to empowering young Nigerians and strengthening the creative economy,” Tinubu stated.
AFRIMA, Africa’s biggest music awards platform, was established in 2014 by the International Committee of AFRIMA in partnership with the African Union Commission. The 9th edition attracted over 1,216 artistes, delegates and industry stakeholders from at least 48 African countries, underscoring the continental relevance and prestige of the awards.
The Lagos-hosted event opened on January 7 with a Welcome Soiree at the residence of the Deputy British High Commissioner, followed by the Africa Music Business Summit at the Eko Convention Centre. Festivities continued on January 9 at the AFRIMA Music Village, Ikeja City Mall, where more than 25 top artistes thrilled over 20,000 fans. The celebrations culminated in a sold-out grand finale at the Eko Convention Centre, where outstanding creatives were honoured with the iconic 23.9-carat gold-plated AFRIMA trophy.